Description
The 2023 vintage of J.L. Chave Sélection Côtes-du-Rhône ‘Mon Cœur’ continues Jean-Louis Chave’s legacy of crafting soulful, terroir-driven wines that punch far above their appellation. From a vintage marked by excellent balance and freshness in the Southern Rhône, Mon Cœur showcases a deft blend of power and finesse, drawn from prime vineyard sources in and around Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This is a négociant wine with a vigneron’s touch—crafted not just to represent the region, but to elevate it.
Product Details
- Vintage: 2023
- Appellation: Côtes-du-Rhône AOC, Rhône Valley, France
- Grapes: Approximately 50% Syrah, 50% Grenache
- Vine Age: 20 to 60 years
- Terroirs: Sourced from four distinct vineyard sites near Châteauneuf-du-Pape
- Farming: Certified Organic
- Fermentation: Traditional, in stainless steel and concrete
- Aging: Aged in older barrels and large neutral foudres
- ABV: 14%
- Production: Small-batch négociant release, estimated under 50,000 bottles
Sensory
The 2023 Mon Cœur opens with a vibrant bouquet of juicy red berries, wild herbs, cracked pepper, and a whiff of sandalwood. The palate delivers a vivid interplay between ripe plum, black cherry, and spicy anise, backed by supple tannins and savory structure. Thanks to the region’s cooler conditions during harvest, this vintage leans into freshness and aromatic clarity, with a medium-bodied profile that glides across the palate while retaining impressive concentration and depth. Its textural balance—rich but never weighty—makes it exceptionally versatile and full of charm.
Awards & Accolades
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90 points – Jeb Dunnuck (May 2025): “Juicy red berries, herbes de Provence, pepper, and a hint of sandalwood… Medium-bodied and nicely balanced, with savory tannins and tons of personality and charm.”
Winemaker’s Background
Jean-Louis Chave, the iconic sixth-generation winemaker behind the legendary Hermitage estate, brings the same rigorous standards and philosophical depth to his J.L. Chave Sélection line. Created to explore and uplift underappreciated terroirs in the Rhône, these wines are sourced from trusted growers and shaped by Chave’s minimalist approach in the cellar. Though technically a négociant project, Mon Cœur is unmistakably Chave—precise, expressive, and made with deep respect for land and tradition. This cuvée consistently reflects Jean-Louis’s belief that even humble appellations can yield greatness when guided by thoughtful farming and integrity in winemaking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve at 60–65°F to highlight its elegant aromatics and layered complexity. A natural companion to braised lamb shanks, roast chicken with herbes de Provence, or funky washed-rind cheeses. It’s also a sneaky-good pairing for fried fare and gamey sausages. A must-try for fans of Rhône reds, especially those seeking a cellar-worthy bottle that’s also delightful on a casual Tuesday night. Drink now through 2031.
